RYA Essential Navigation & Seamanship Theory Syllabus
The RYA Essential Navigation and Seamanship theory course provides an introduction to the basic skills required before taking a small boat to sea or taking an active part in running a boat.
This course is ideal for those operating smaller craft close to shore.
Sailing Theory Syllabus
- Basic terms
- Chart overview
- Introduction to chart datum and depths
Buoyage
- Lateral buoys
- Cardinal buoys
- Where to find information
Navigation
- Plotting a position
- Measuring distance and bearing
- Position fix
- Heading
Safety
- Personal and boat safety equipment
- Safety procedures and briefing
- Communications
- Engine checks
- Rescue procedures
Anchoring
- Where to anchor
- How to anchor
Tides
- Tidal streams
- Tidal heights
Electronic navigation
- GPS terms
- GPS use
- Using waypoints
Rules of the road
- Risk of collision
- Who gives way
Weather forecasts
- Sources of forecast
- Terms used in forecasts
Pilotage
- Harbour information
- Transits
- Pilotage plan
Passage planning
- SOLAS V requirements
- Pre planning
- Chart choice